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DO-254 Glossary of Terms

Design Assurance Level, a safety criticality rating from level A-E, with level A/B being the most critical and requiring the most stringent DO-254/DO178B process

Level A: Where a software/hardware failure would cause and or contribute to a catastrophic failure of the aircraft flight control systems.

Level B: Where a software/hardware failure would cause and or contribute to a hazardous/severe failure condition in the flight control systems.

Level C: Where a software/hardware failure would cause and or contribute to a major failure condition in the flight control systems.

Level D: Where a software/hardware failure would cause and or contribute to a minor failure condition in the flight controls systems.

Level E: Where a software/hardware failure would have no adverse effect on the aircraft or on pilot workload.

DER

Designated Engineering Representative, an individual, appointed by the FAA to approve or recommend approval of technical data to the FAA. These individuals can work for a specific company (such as Boeing) or be independent consultants and serve as DERs to many other companies.

DO

Document, from RTCA

DO-178B

Software Considerations in Airborne Systems and Equipment Certification, an aviation industry standard since 1992. A DO-178C standard is imminent.